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Sitting here at my favorite BBQ joint and wondering who has the best BBQ in Asheville?
Ok, this will not end well where the first thought I had when deciding to write this! Everyone has their favorite spot and favorite style. These are just the opinions of a local who loves BBQ and frequents new places.
Be warned most restaurants, food trucks, and the hole in the wall BBQ joint all have good days and bad days. Please reach out and let me know if you have a great experience somewhere in the Asheville area, I love to give it a try.
So in no particular order, here is a list of BBQ joints worth exploring in Asheville.
Black Bear BBQ in River Ridge Market off Fairview Road. I mention this because this place is in a strip mall, and I know some people will be hesitant to give it a try. If you are after some brisket or ribs, this is a solid choice. They offer large serving sizes, and they are consistently good. The pulled pork was average.
12 Bones is a local legend for their Chipolte Blueberry sauce. That said, this place changed ownership a few years back, I don’t know if that was a good or bad thing. I love their ribs, they seem to be on point when it comes to ribs. Their mac and cheese and corn pudding are undoubtedly worth a try as well. And while I have not had a chance to try it, people say the smoked turkey and brie sandwich is the bomb!
It is worth mentioning that they also have a brewery, so if you are into trying new beers, they are your BBQ spot.
Buxton is good, I would say go here for the ambiance and dessert, not the BBQ. Their pulled pork seemed perfect, too perfect for me. I want some bit and pieces of fat and crispy char.
Fried okra and Brussels sprouts are a must-try here if you like either of these! Bonfire would be in the running for #1 if they were consistent. They have amazing sauces, and when they are on point, the meats are fantastic. I would try the brisket or ribs, or if you have a huge appetite go for the grand slam sandwich.
An excellent choice for NC style pulled pork, their sides are also amazing. Their wings would also be in the running for the top spot. While not my personal favorite, my family loves the dry-rubbed sweet potato chips. I would skip the brisket as I have never been impressed.
Self-described as a basic BBQ joint selling smoked meats. Little Pigs is Asheville’s oldest operating restaurant, and I probably take it for granted. I will report back on this one as I have not been in years!
Moes BBQ, located in Woodfin just north of Asheville, has the best wings. Their wings are smoked then fried. Their smoked turkey is also some of the best around if you are looking for a healthier option. Other notable items would be their fried catfish and fried okra; both are well above average.
If you are planning a trip to Pisgah and coming in through Brevard, this place is located right at the entrance. I have never been here, so I cannot comment on the meats.